Caring people are teaming up to fight hunger in the Detroit area with a program known as "Empty Bowls." Two events are happening in March to reach out to people in need. Click the video player to see JoAnne Purtan's interview on 7 Action News at Noon.
Assumption Church has spent the past 11 years hosting Empty Bowls, an event to raise awareness to fight hunger and serve over one million meals for those in need through Cass Community Social Services. Organizers say last year's Empty Bowls raised over $30,000 to assist the Cass programs. They say much more is needed to cover any single program or enough food for the homeless.
FIRST EVENT - FRIDAY MARCH 3
The first event is at Eastern Market Friday, March 3 from 5:30 pm to 11:00 pm, Shed 5.
Detroit businesses will offer soups, bread, cheese, wine and beer. Each guest will take home a hand painted bowl as a reminder that someone's bowl is always empty.
There will also be live entertainment and a celebrity bowl auction.
The organization is asking for a donation of $30 in advance or $40 at the door, The money will benefit Cass Community Social Services - Fighting Poverty and Creating Opportunity.
Click the link for much more information about "Empty Bowls."
Celebrities are signing bowls for an on-line auction as well. Click the following link for that: www.32auctions.com/emptybowlsdetroit2017
SECOND EVENT - SUNDAY MARCH 12
The second event is set for Sunday, March 12, 4 - 6 p.m.,
Assumption will host the event at 21800 Marter Rd. located in the communities of St Clair Shores and Grosse Pointe Woods. Several restuarants will provide soup and beautiful handmade bowls will be offered to each guest. "The Ambassadors", a group of previously homeless men from Cass, will sing gospel and Motown music. Minimum donation is $15.
Here's what organizers say about the program's history.
"Cass , with the vision and direction of Rev. Faith Fowler, has been building a campus, one building at a time. Cass completed the rehabbed Antisdel Apartments for 41 homeless families and individuals. In 2015, the vacant World Center in Detroit renamed headquarters for Cass.
Last year, the Tiny Homes project was launched providing new 300 sq ft homes to the homeless to own for the first time in their lives. In addition, the mentally challenged, abused mothers and children, veterans, and other groups in need are all being serviced and rehabilitated to re-enter society through the many campus facilities and programs. The extraordinary frigid weather has increased an awareness of our homeless coping to stay alive and the wonderful people of Cass who are reaching out and caring for them. Visit Cass at www.casscommunity.org.
